Vancouver police seek witnesses after reported disturbing incidents downtown

Vancouver Police are asking possible victims and witnesses to come forward after a series of reported incidents in the downtown core this week.

Police say officers arrested a man under the Mental Health Act on Tuesday afternoon, but there was not enough evidence to recommend criminal charges. Sgt. Adam Donaldson said investigators want to identify anyone who may have encountered the man so the incidents can be fully investigated.

A witness near Robson and Howe streets reported that a man had been harassing a child on a bus, police said. Officers could not find the child, but observed a man matching the suspect description entering and leaving businesses and approaching several women.

The arrested man is described as South Asian, 45 to 50 years old, about five-foot-eight, with a slim build and black hair. He was wearing a white buttoned dress shirt and blue jeans. Police have not released further details of the alleged conduct and are asking anyone with information to call their tip line.